Senior rescue golden retrievers Duke and Leona team up in adorably sneaky antics at their forever home

Life with more than one dog is always filled with surprises, especially in situations where dogs come with their own history. Sometimes, where two rescue dogs coexist in a family, quirks and traits in the dogs simply overlap and evolve into behavior that is more funny than intentional. This is precisely the case in the lives of Duke and Leona, who are senior citizen dogs and belong to the golden variety. (Photo credit: Shutterstock)

Duke, the first occupant, is typically characterized by his behavior of collecting items he does not own. Instead of being destructive to his property, Duke's behavior is more aligned with gathering and protecting other items in the household, a behavior which is most likely a result of his past. His owner is learning to appreciate Duke's behavior by being patient with him as he finally feels secure.

And finally, there’s Leona, the newest addition to the pack and the most eager of the bunch to spectate. Since she joined the ranks of the family, Leona was quick to realize the benefits of "heeding the Duke’s every move." What had begun as curiosity has slowly evolved into a shared hobby, and the two have become an unlikely duo to keep their human on high alert.

Duke’s “collections” are as unexpected as they are hilarious. Over time, he has been seen carefully removing everything from decorative items to essential household items, placing them all nicely at a location chosen by him. Apparently, there is a purpose to his apparent madness, as he approves and carries off what he chooses based on what seems to be his mood of choice. The process has turned out to be a point of entertainment.

Though neither Duke nor Leona has any idea of the joy their behaviour brings, what matters most is where their journey has led them. Today, both live in a home filled with warmth, security, and acceptance - a place where their quirks aren’t criticised or punished, but understood. Keeping an eye on coffee tables and bookshelves is a small price to pay for watching them live their best lives as rescue dogs.

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